Herbert will lead the Chargers’ offense in a preseason clash with the Rams, aiming to test live rush and build timing with a revamped receiving corps that includes Tre’ Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Keenan Allen. Allen will still log limited snaps as he ramps up, giving Herbert a sense of comfort against a real pass rush before Week 1 in Brazil. The plan to play the starters despite injuries signals urgency over caution.

With Derwin James and Khalil Mack sidelined, Daiyan Henley steps into a leadership spotlight after a breakout season, while Joe Alt shifts back to left tackle to anchor a reimagined OL. Oronde Gadsden II has impressed with route-running polish and could push for more snaps as the Chargers explore a TE committee behind Will Dissly and Tyler Conklin. The Rams test should illuminate depth and chemistry from top to bottom as LA readies for the regular season.

Herbert takes the field for a preseason debut to test a live rush from the Rams, a crucial tune-up as Los Angeles reloads its offense. Allen returns slowly, while a reshaped receiving corps, rookie reps, and a revamped line try to unlock Week 1 tempo. On defense, Henley steps into leadership with Derwin James and Khalil Mack sidelined for precaution, and the TE group leans committee as Dissly and Conklin clash for snaps. The game also frames Mehkhi Becton’s absence and Alt’s shift to left tackle as the offensive line retools.

Live reps in SoFi Stadium matter for fantasy managers. Herbert’s willingness to push, Allen’s conditioning arc, Henley’s growth, Alt’s alignment, and the Dissly-Conklin dynamic all feed into early-season projections, while the defense uses this stage to calibrate communication and leadership without its big-name veterans. It’s a practical, high-leverage watch for fantasy prep and betting angles ahead of the Brazil opener.

Key takeaways center on how quickly the Chargers translate a banged-up roster into rhythm against a Rams unit hungry to pressure a young offense. With minor injuries shaping roles, the outcome will tilt how fantasy rosters value Herbert, Allen, Dissly, Conklin, and Henley early in the season.

As the Chargers gear up for another season, linebacker Daiyan Henley is embracing the team's new look, complete with vibrant practice jerseys featuring game-ready lightning bolts. Under coach Jim Harbaugh's guidance, the Chargers have innovated by introducing jersey patches that symbolize individual and team accomplishments, fostering a sense of pride and competition among players.

Derwin James Jr., the star safety, exemplifies this initiative with patches celebrating his impressive feats, including multiple playoff appearances and All-Pro honors. These patches not only serve as personal accolades but also promote camaraderie within the locker room, as players strive for success and recognition.

Daiyan Henley, the Chargers linebacker, showcased a fresh new look as the team’s training camp kicks off. Adorned in a fitted practice jersey featuring striking lightning bolts, Henley expressed pride in the Chargers' identity, emphasizing how it reflects the 'Harbaugh way.' This season, players will wear patches on their jerseys celebrating significant personal achievements and team milestones, a move inspired by head coach Jim Harbaugh’s vision for team unity and pride.

Derwin James Jr. stands out with an impressive collection of patches that signify his multiple accolades, fostering a competitive spirit among teammates to enhance their own jerseys. Harbaugh’s innovative approach, reminiscent of his methods at Michigan, promotes a culture of achievement and camaraderie. The personalized touches in the locker room and practice gear echo the blue-collar mentality Harbaugh aims to instill, ensuring each player feels valued and connected to the team’s history and aspirations.

The fantasy landscape for linebackers is shifting as new names emerge for 2025. Zack Baun has proven to be a breakout star, leading the league in PFF grades and IDP scoring. Alongside him, Jamien Sherwood, Daiyan Henley, and Blake Cashman are rising, all finishing in the upper percentile for tackles against expectations. Notable players like Jack Campbell and Edgerrin Cooper are also positioned for potential breakout seasons, enhancing their value in drafts.

The linebacker tiers are critical for fantasy managers. In Tier 1, the elite players are primarily from tackle-friendly defenses, showcasing exceptional tackling skills. Tier 2 highlights full-time starters with LB1 potential, while Tier 3 includes starters with lower expectations but possible value. Notably, Terrel Bernard and Foyesade Oluokun are bounce-back candidates after injury-impacted seasons, poised to return to top-tier production.